The document discusses analysis paralysis, which is a state of mind that traps analysts and prevents progress. It occurs when there is no deadline, clearly defined objectives or plan. It can be caused by fear, lack of confidence or indecision about when or where to stop analyzing. Analysis paralysis can lead to project delays, scope creep, increased risk, wrong decisions, project failure and complexity. The document recommends techniques like timeboxing, following the 80/20 rule, scope modeling, and using a vision statement to avoid analysis paralysis and stay guided by the project vision and scope.

1. Analysis Paralysis
For all Business Analysts & You
Business Analyst Learnings

2. Analysis Paralysis
is
Not a physical disease.
It’s a state of mind that traps
you and stops you from
making progress.
You’re unable to see the
wood for the trees…

3. Analysis Paralysis
is
Not knowing when to stop.
Causes
1. No deadlines
2. No clearly defined
objectives
3. No plan

4. Analysis Paralysis
is
Not wanting to stop.
Causes
•
Fear
•
A lack of confidence
•
Indecision

5. Analysis Paralysis
is
Not knowing where to stop.
How much documentation is
enough? How many models
are enough?

6. Analysis Paralysis
can lead to:
•
Project Delays
•
Scope Creep
•
Increased Risk
•
Wrong Decisions
•
Project Failure
•
Complexity
“It’s not enough to be busy,
so are the ants. The
question is, what are we
busy doing?”
– Henry David Thoreau

7. Useful Techniques
for avoiding Analysis Paralysis

8. 1. Timeboxing
―To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan and not quite enough time.‖
- Leonard Bernstein
Timeboxing ensures that deliverables are turned out within a specific timeframe.

9. 2. 80/20 Rule
―Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.‖
― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Prioritize. 80% of the benefits can often be obtained with 20% of the work. Don’t get lost in the
remaining 20%.

10. 3. Scope Modelling
―To the person who does not know where he wants to go there is no favorable wind.‖
— Seneca
Caveat: Define the scope of the project and have a plan.

11. 4. Vision Statement
―Vision animates, inspires, transforms purpose into action.‖ – Warren Bennis
Ensure your requirements cover the vision. A vision statement describes the why, what and
who of the solution.

12. And if these fail you…
• Step away
• Take a Break and
• Try Again
Be guided by the vision and
scope of your project!

13. Read more on Managing
Analysis Paralysis